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Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
A nation recalibrated: Why Oman may hit 2040 targets ahead of time?
In an age dominated by grand national visions, Oman's latest performance report of its 10th Five Year Plan, spanning the 2021–Q1 2025 timeframe, stands apart—not for its rhetoric, but for its results. While other nations amplify ambitions, Oman quantifies them. And what the numbers now reveal is nothing short of a silent transformation—precise, purposeful, and increasingly irreversible. This transformation—guided by Oman Vision 2040—is not being proclaimed with slogans, but evidenced through percentages. From digital government to clean water access, from economic diversification to governance reform, the performance report issued recently by the Ministry of Finance underscores the progress Oman is making on multiple fronts, consistently and measurably. STRATEGIC PLANNING THAT PRODUCES At the heart of the report lies a compelling headline figure: 44.9% cumulative improvement in national performance indicators over just four years. This is not a marginal shift—it is a recalibration of how governance, services, and citizen engagement function in the Sultanate. The government's success in digital transformation is among the most visible. 85% of services are now accessible online, and 90% of citizens use digital identity systems, enabling faster, more transparent public services. Digital infrastructure readiness stands at 95%, while AI integration in government functions has reached 20%—a significant foundation for the next generation of smart governance. This is not just about technology; it's about access. Digital service satisfaction now stands at 80%, and 81% of public sector services have been automated, cutting red tape and raising accountability. HEALTHCARE THAT DELIVERS Healthcare is one of Oman's standout reform areas. Preventive health service coverage has reached 95%, and public satisfaction with the sector stands at 86%. The digitisation of medical records has ensured 90% of patients can now access their health data with ease. Key outcomes include a 4.6% increase in life expectancy, and an 11.9% decline in infant mortality since 2021—proof that investment in the healthcare system is not only improving systems, but saving lives. The health insurance coverage rate stands at 92%, and health system efficiency has improved by 6.1%—figures that show strategic policies are translating into tangible gains. AN ECONOMY DIVERSIFYING BY DESIGN Despite global economic volatility, Oman's efforts to reduce its dependence on oil are bearing fruit. The report shows an 8.7% increase in non-oil sector contribution to GDP, supported by 7.8% growth in the manufacturing sector and a 4.9% rise in SME contributions. Public–private collaboration has become a pillar of this diversification, with a PPP success rate of 90% and private sector engagement in development at 92%. These numbers reflect not just alignment with Vision 2040, but a structural shift in how Oman's economy is financed, built, and grown. FDI inflows have risen by 2.0% annually, while business environment indicators improved by 2.8%, driven by ongoing regulatory reform and streamlined licensing procedures. Inflation control measures delivered a 2.6% improvement, and economic diversification indexes rose by 3.2%, signaling that Oman's economy is expanding in both depth and scope. EDUCATION IN SERVICE OF EMPLOYMENT The education sector has undergone substantial reform. Tertiary enrolment stands at 60%, and a significant 86% of graduates now meet labour market needs. Vocational training participation sits at 59%, and digital literacy among youth is an impressive 95%—a critical asset for a future economy built on innovation. Still, gaps persist. STEM graduates comprise 45% of total graduates, and only 15% of students specialise in entrepreneurship-related fields. While female labour force participation has improved to 40%, perceptions of gender equity in the workplace remain modest at 57%. These metrics will need sharper focus to meet inclusivity and competitiveness targets. CITIES, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND SUSTAINABILITY Urban development efforts have kept pace with citizen expectations. Access to electricity and clean water has reached 95% and 90% respectively, and 81% of the population expresses satisfaction with infrastructure. Housing remains accessible to 83%, while smart city initiatives have achieved 59% implementation. Yet public transport coverage remains at 55%, and green infrastructure integration at 25%—areas where Oman can scale up to ensure sustainable urban living. The environmental domain, however, is a red flag. Carbon emissions dropped only 0.6%, and waste recycling remains at 14%. Environmental awareness is just 28%, while air quality and water efficiency compliance both sit at 72%. Without greater policy innovation and public mobilisation, Oman risks lagging behind on sustainability, even as it leads in infrastructure. Where Oman is leading regionally—and arguably internationally—is in governance reform. Transparency indicators are at 86%, accountability mechanisms score 91%, and anti-corruption efforts are rated at 85%. This new culture of statecraft is supported by 72% e-participation and 50% citizen engagement in policymaking—numbers that are expected to rise as decentralisation efforts and municipal reforms take hold. The report's closing message is clear: Oman is not improvising. It is delivering. Over 70% of Vision 2040 performance indicators have either met or exceeded benchmarks. And yet, rather than declare victory, the government is pressing forward—identifying regional disparities, calling for stronger environmental frameworks, and encouraging private sector competitiveness. If the next five years mirror the momentum of the last, Oman may not just reach its Vision 2040 goals—it may arrive early, and stronger than anticipated. Qasim Al Maashani 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
CNA
27-05-2025
- Business
- CNA
Motorola Solutions bolsters communications segment with $4.4 billion deal for Silvus
Motorola Solutions said on Tuesday it would acquire wireless-radio maker Silvus Technologies for $4.4 billion as the safety equipment maker looks to bolster its position in the market and take advantage of rising demand. The acquisition could help Motorola develop and improve its communications hardware to meet high orders for devices such as radios amid rising geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts. Under the terms of the deal, Silvus has the potential to receive an earn-out of up to $600 million based on its business performance over twelve-month periods ending in 2027 and 2028. The buyout is expected to close in the third or fourth quarter of this year. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Los Angeles, Silvus Technologies makes advanced wireless communication systems for mission-critical applications such as military and maritime operations. Silvus' investments in integrating artificial intelligence into its communications systems have benefited the company as the public sector invests heavily in modernizing military capabilities. Last month, Motorola launched an AI tool that works with its software to process information and collect data more quickly in order to help first responders save time and react faster during emergencies. Motorola forecast weak second-quarter profit at the start of the month and flagged higher material costs for the year owing to uncertainty created by a shifting U.S. trade policy.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Zhihu Inc. Reports Unaudited First Quarter 2025 Financial Results
BEIJING, China, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Zhihu Inc. ('Zhihu' or the 'Company') (NYSE: ZH; HKEX: 2390), a leading online content community in China, today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. First Quarter 2025 Highlights Total revenues were RMB729.7 million (US$100.6 million) in the first quarter of 2025, compared with RMB960.9 million in the same period of 2024. Gross margin expanded to 61.8% in the first quarter of 2025 from 56.6% in the same period of 2024. Net loss was RMB10.1 million (US$1.4 million) in the first quarter of 2025, narrowed by 93.9% from the same period of 2024. Adjusted net income (non-GAAP)[1] was RMB6.9 million (US$1.0 million) in the first quarter of 2025, compared with an adjusted net loss of RMB135.7 million in the same period of 2024. Average monthly subscribing members[2] were 14.2 million in the first quarter of 2025. 'The first quarter of 2025 marks a strong start to the year, as we achieved our first-ever first-quarter non-GAAP net income since our IPO, extending the momentum of our fourth-quarter profitability,' said Mr. Yuan Zhou, chairman and chief executive officer of Zhihu. 'This achievement reflects the effectiveness of our refined operational strategies alongside the deepening integration of AI into our ecosystem. During the quarter, we observed continuous improvement in core user retention, DAU time spent, and creator activeness, underscoring the vitality of our community. Notably, Zhihu Zhida has won growing recognition for its trusted and professional experience, especially in domains that demand authenticity and depth. We are continuously strengthening our differentiation in the AI era by advancing the synergy between our unique assets: high-quality content, a trusted expert network, and advanced AI capabilities.' Mr. Han Wang, chief financial officer of Zhihu, added, 'In the first quarter, we achieved a non-GAAP net income of RMB6.9 million and expanded our gross margin by 5.2 percentage points year-over-year, even as we continued to make proactive business adjustments. These results reflect our disciplined execution and enhanced operational efficiency. Looking ahead, we remain focused on enhancing our commercialization capabilities while unlocking the significant value embedded in our community. We are committed to delivering sustainable growth and profitability to create long-term value for our shareholders.' First Quarter 2025 Financial Results Total revenues were RMB729.7 million (US$100.6 million) in the first quarter of 2025, compared with RMB960.9 million in the same period of 2024. Marketing services revenue was RMB197.0 million (US$27.1 million), compared with RMB330.5 million in the same period of 2024. The decrease was primarily due to our proactive and ongoing refinement of service offerings to strategically focus on margin improvement. Paid membership revenue was RMB417.9 million (US$57.6 million), compared with RMB449.7 million in the same period of 2024. The slight decrease was primarily due to a marginal decline in the number of our average monthly subscribing members. Vocational training revenue was RMB94.5 million (US$13.0 million), compared with RMB145.4 million in the first quarter of 2024. The decrease was primarily due to a lower revenue contribution from our acquired businesses. Other revenues were RMB20.3 million (US$2.8 million), compared with RMB35.2 million in the same period of 2024. Cost of revenues decreased by 33.3% to RMB278.6 million (US$38.4 million) from RMB417.4 million in the same period of 2024. The decrease was primarily due to reduced content and operating costs associated with the decline in our revenues and a decrease in cloud services and bandwidth costs resulting from our improved technological efficiency. Gross profit was RMB451.1 million (US$62.2 million), compared with RMB543.5 million in the same period of 2024. Gross margin expanded to 61.8% from 56.6% in the same period of 2024, primarily attributable to our monetization enhancements and improvements in our operating efficiency. Total operating expenses decreased by 34.4% to RMB503.7 million (US$69.4 million) from RMB768.2 million in the same period of 2024. Selling and marketing expenses decreased by 32.9% to RMB320.6 million (US$44.2 million) from RMB478.0 million in the same period of 2024. The decrease was primarily due to more disciplined promotional spending and a decrease in personnel-related expenses. Research and development expenses decreased by 28.1% to RMB141.9 million (US$19.6 million) from RMB197.4 million in the same period of 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to more efficient spending on technological innovation and a decrease in personnel-related expenses. General and administrative expenses decreased by 55.6% to RMB41.2 million (US$5.7 million) from RMB92.9 million in the same period of 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decline in the allowance for expected credit losses on trade receivables. Loss from operations narrowed by 76.6% to RMB52.6 million (US$7.2 million) from RMB224.7 million in the same period of 2024. Adjusted loss from operations (non-GAAP)[1] narrowed by 81.9% to RMB35.0 million (US$4.8 million) from RMB193.6 million in the same period of 2024. Net loss narrowed by 93.9% to RMB10.1 million (US$1.4 million) from RMB165.8 million in the same period of 2024. Adjusted net income (non-GAAP)[1] was RMB6.9 million (US$1.0 million) in the first quarter of 2025, compared with an adjusted net loss of RMB135.7 million in the same period of 2024. Diluted net loss per American depositary share ('ADS') was RMB0.12 (US$0.02), compared with RMB1.76 in the same period of 2024. Cash and cash equivalents, term deposits, restricted cash and short-term investmentsAs of March 31, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents, current and non-current term deposits, restricted cash and short-term investments of RMB4,766.5 million (US$656.8 million), compared with RMB4,859.0 million as of December 31, 2024. Share Repurchase Programs As of March 31, 2025, the Company had repurchased 31.1 million Class A ordinary shares (including Class A ordinary shares underlying the ADSs) for a total price of US$66.5 million on both the New York Stock Exchange and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the Company's existing US$100 million share repurchase program (the '2022 Repurchase Program'), established in May 2022 and extended until June 26, 2025. The board of directors of the Company further announces that, after the expiration of the 2022 Repurchase Program and a concurrent share repurchase program established in June 2024 and effective until June 26, 2025 (the '2024 Repurchase Program'), it proposes to conduct a new share repurchase program effective until June 25, 2026 (the '2025 Repurchase Program'). The maximum number of shares (including shares underlying the ADSs) that can be repurchased under the 2025 Repurchase Program will be 10% of the total number of issued shares of the Company (excluding Class A ordinary shares issued to the depositary for bulk issuance of ADSs reserved for future issuances upon the exercise or vesting of awards granted under the share incentive plans of the Company and any treasury shares) as of the date of such approval at the forthcoming annual general meeting of the Company to be held on June 25, 2025. The Company's proposed share repurchases, if approved, may be made from time to time in the open market at prevailing market prices depending on market conditions and in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. The Company plans to fund any such repurchases from its existing cash balance. [1] Adjusted income/(loss) from operations and adjusted net income/(loss) are non-GAAP financial measures. For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please see the section 'Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures' and the table captioned 'Unaudited Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results' set forth at the end of this press release. [2] Monthly subscribing members refers to the number of members who subscribed for our membership packages in a specified month. Average monthly subscribing members for a period is calculated by dividing the sum of monthly subscribing members for each month during the specified period by the number of months in such period. Conference Call The Company's management will host a conference call at 8:00 A.M. U.S. Eastern Time on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 (8:00 P.M. Beijing/Hong Kong Time on Tuesday, May 27, 2025) to discuss the results. All participants wishing to join the conference call must pre-register online using the link provided below. Once the pre-registration has been completed, each participant will receive a set of dial-in numbers and a unique access PIN which can be used to join the conference call. Registration Link: Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company's investor relations website at About Zhihu Inc. Zhihu Inc. (NYSE: ZH; HKEX: 2390) is a leading online content community where people come to find solutions, make decisions, seek inspiration, and have fun. Since the initial launch in 2010, Zhihu has grown into the largest Q&A-inspired online content community in China. For more information, please visit Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures In evaluating the business, the Company considers and uses non-GAAP financial measures, such as adjusted income/(loss) from operations and adjusted net income/(loss), to supplement the review and assessment of its operating performance. The Company defines non-GAAP financial measures by excluding the impact of share-based compensation expenses, amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions and the tax effects of the non-GAAP adjustments, which are non-cash expenses. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measures facilitate comparisons of operating performance from period to period and company to company by adjusting for potential impacts of items, which the Company's management considers to be indicative of its operating performance. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors and others in understanding and evaluating the Company's consolidated results of operations in the same manner as they help the Company's management. The non-GAAP financial measures are not defined under U.S. GAAP and are not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The presentation of the non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. The use of the non-GAAP financial measures has limitations as an analytical tool, and investors should not consider them in isolation from or as a substitute for analysis of our results of operations or financial condition as reported under U.S. GAAP. For more information on the non-GAAP financial measures, please see the tables captioned 'Unaudited Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results' set forth at the end of this press release. Exchange Rate Information This announcement contains translations of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at a specified rate solely for the convenience of the reader. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars were made at a rate of RMB7.2567 to US$1.00, the exchange rate in effect as of March 31, 2025 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board. Safe Harbor Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the 'safe harbor' provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as 'may,' 'will,' 'expect,' 'anticipate,' 'target,' 'aim,' 'estimate,' 'intend,' 'plan,' 'believe,' 'potential,' 'continue,' 'is/are likely to,' or other similar expressions. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company's filings with the SEC and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. For investor and media inquiries, please contact: Zhihu ir@ Christensen AdvisoryRoger HuTel: +86-10-5900-1548Email: zhihu@ CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS(All amounts in thousands, except share, ADS, per share data and per ADS data) For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 December 31, 2024 March 31, 2025 RMB RMB RMB US$ Revenues: Marketing services 330,542 315,940 196,959 27,142 Paid membership 449,724 420,215 417,874 57,585 Vocational training 145,436 83,984 94,531 13,027 Others 35,161 39,073 20,301 2,798 Total revenues 960,863 859,212 729,665 100,552 Cost of revenues (417,384 ) (318,547 ) (278,561 ) (38,387 ) Gross profit 543,479 540,665 451,104 62,165 Selling and marketing expenses (477,954 ) (316,198 ) (320,632 ) (44,184 ) Research and development expenses (197,356 ) (146,613 ) (141,866 ) (19,550 ) General and administrative expenses (92,917 ) (65,988 ) (41,209 ) (5,679 ) Total operating expenses (768,227 ) (528,799 ) (503,707 ) (69,413 ) (Loss)/Income from operations (224,748 ) 11,866 (52,603 ) (7,248 ) Other income/(expenses): Investment income 16,902 13,049 19,349 2,666 Interest income 30,763 26,311 20,610 2,840 Fair value change of financial instruments 9,408 30,698 - - Exchange gains/(losses) 120 1,701 (96 ) (13 ) Others, net 3,043 113 2,399 331 (Loss)/Income before income tax (164,512 ) 83,738 (10,341 ) (1,424 ) Income tax (expenses)/benefits (1,284 ) 2,663 233 32 Net (loss)/income (165,796 ) 86,401 (10,108 ) (1,392 ) Net loss/(income) attributable to noncontrolling interests 950 (127 ) 14 2 Net (loss)/income attributable to Zhihu Inc.'s shareholders (164,846 ) 86,274 (10,094 ) (1,390 ) Net (loss)/income per share Basic (0.59 ) 0.34 (0.04 ) (0.01 ) Diluted (0.59 ) 0.33 (0.04 ) (0.01 ) Net (loss)/income per ADS (One ADS represents three Class A ordinary shares) Basic (1.76 ) 1.01 (0.12 ) (0.02 ) Diluted (1.76 ) 1.00 (0.12 ) (0.02 ) Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding Basic 281,549,707 256,257,971 244,504,405 244,504,405 Diluted 281,549,707 259,990,323 244,504,405 244,504,405ZHIHU CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)(All amounts in thousands, except share, ADS, per share data and per ADS data) For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 December 31, 2024 March 31, 2025 RMB RMB RMB US$ Share-based compensation expenses included in: Cost of revenues 2,497 (314 ) (872 ) (120 ) Selling and marketing expenses 3,272 269 262 36 Research and development expenses 3,680 (6,436 ) (599 ) (83 ) General and administrative expenses 16,363 14,261 15,367 2,118ZHIHU INC. UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(All amounts in thousands) As of December 31,2024 As of March 31, 2025 RMB RMB US$ ASSETS Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 3,999,160 3,239,963 446,479 Term deposits 320,088 385,624 53,141 Short-term investments 538,816 930,006 128,158 Restricted cash 900 900 124 Trade receivables 420,636 429,210 59,147 Amounts due from related parties 41,588 42,519 5,859 Prepayments and other current assets 163,446 134,648 18,555 Total current assets 5,484,634 5,162,870 711,463 Non-current assets: Property and equipment, net 8,490 7,885 1,087 Intangible assets, net 54,534 51,018 7,030 Goodwill 126,344 126,344 17,411 Long-term investments, net 51,176 50,168 6,913 Term deposits - 210,000 28,939 Right-of-use assets 7,151 66,361 9,145 Other non-current assets 623 8,414 1,159 Total non-current assets 248,318 520,190 71,684 Total assets 5,732,952 5,683,060 783,147 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 835,688 740,138 101,994 Salary and welfare payables 275,260 266,786 36,764 Taxes payables 22,081 17,685 2,437 Contract liabilities 235,539 228,590 31,500 Amounts due to related parties 6,825 6,107 842 Short term lease liabilities 17,308 37,575 5,178 Short-term borrowings - 55,786 7,688 Other current liabilities 131,955 126,173 17,387 Total current liabilities 1,524,656 1,478,840 203,790 Non-current liabilities Long term lease liabilities 1,823 34,794 4,795 Deferred tax liabilities 6,830 6,230 858 Other non-current liabilities 3,957 3,833 528 Total non-current liabilities 12,610 44,857 6,181 Total liabilities 1,537,266 1,523,697 209,971 Total Zhihu Inc.'s shareholders' equity 4,136,123 4,096,441 564,505 Noncontrolling interests 59,563 62,922 8,671 Total shareholders' equity 4,195,686 4,159,363 573,176 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity 5,732,952 5,683,060 783,147 ZHIHU RECONCILIATIONS OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP RESULTS(All amounts in thousands) For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2024 December 31, 2024 March 31, 2025 RMB RMB RMB US$ (Loss)/Income from operations (224,748 ) 11,866 (52,603 ) (7,248 ) Add: Share-based compensation expenses 25,812 7,780 14,158 1,951 Amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions 5,365 3,490 3,490 481 Adjusted (loss)/income from operations (193,571 ) 23,136 (34,955 ) (4,816 ) Net (loss)/income (165,796 ) 86,401 (10,108 ) (1,392 ) Add: Share-based compensation expenses 25,812 7,780 14,158 1,951 Amortization of intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions 5,365 3,490 3,490 481 Tax effects on non-GAAP adjustments (1,069 ) (600 ) (600 ) (83 ) Adjusted net (loss)/income (135,688 ) 97,071 6,940 957Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Arabian Business
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arabian Business
Arab Media Summit 2025 opens in Dubai with 8,000 media professionals
The Arab Media Summit (AMS) 2025 begins today in Dubai under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The three-day summit, which runs until May 28, will host 8,000 media professionals from the UAE and across the Arab world, including ministers, editors-in-chief, heads of media organisations, content creators, influencers, media technology experts, and academics. The event features over 300 speakers across 175 sessions and 35 workshops. Arab Media Summit 2025 kicks off Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, President of the Dubai Press Club, and Chairperson of the Organising Committee of the Arab Media Summit, addressed participants at the opening. 'For more than two decades, the Arab Media Forum, the foundation of this Summit, has addressed the major transformations shaping our industry. Today's world demands a new dialogue. The rapid integration of artificial intelligence and immersive technologies requires the development of new strategies that are ambitious, youth-driven, and future-focused. Our aim is to raise Arab media's role in growth and development not just regionally, but also globally,' she said. The summit will host His Eminence the Grand Imam Prof. Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, and His Excellency Nawaf Salam, Prime Minister of Lebanon, alongside ministers, senior officials, editors-in-chief of newspapers, publications, digital platforms, and leaders of Arab and international media organisations. The Arab Media Summit 2025 will also launch the Film and Gaming Forum, organised by the Dubai Films and Games Commission. صباح الخير .. مرحباً بكم في فعاليات اليوم الأول من #قمة_الإعلام_العربي الحدث الإعلامي الأكبر والأكثر تأثيراً على مستوى المنطقة. — نادي دبي للصحافة (@DubaiPressClub) May 26, 2025 The summit will also unveil the Arab Media Outlook – Future Vision 2024-2028 report, providing data-driven insights into emerging trends, technology adoption, and audience dynamics in the region. The event includes guests and participants from 26 countries. Several cooperation and partnership agreements between Arab and international institutions will be signed during the summit, alongside closed media sessions with prominent figures. Four media retreats will focus on developing strategic visions for television, print media, digital media, and podcasting sectors. The summit will further host award ceremonies for the Arab Media Award, the Ibda'a – Arab Youth Media Award, and the Arab Social Media Influencers Award. These awards received thousands of submissions from across the region. Al Marri also welcomed the winners from the UAE and other Arab countries attending the summit. The Arab Media Summit 2025 receives support from multiple partners. DP World serves as a Strategic Partner, whilst Dubai Electricity and Water Authority acts as a Sustainability Strategic Partner. ENOC provides Energy Partnership, with Dubai Chambers as the Main Partner. Dubai Municipality supports the summit as Future City Partner, Emirates Airline as Airline Partner, Emirates NBD as Banking Partner, du as Telecom Partner, and Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority as Mobility Partner.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
CorVel Corp (CRVL) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Strong Revenue Growth and Strategic AI ...
Release Date: May 22, 2025 For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. CorVel Corp (NASDAQ:CRVL) reported a 12% increase in March quarter revenues, reaching $232 million compared to $207 million in the previous year. Earnings per share for the quarter rose by 38% to $0.51, up from $0.37 in the same quarter of the prior year. The fiscal year 2025 revenues were $896 million, marking a 13% increase from the previous fiscal year. CorVel Corp (NASDAQ:CRVL) has successfully integrated AI tools to enhance communication platforms, improving efficiency and providing actionable insights. The company has a strong, debt-free balance sheet with a cash balance of $171 million, allowing for strategic investments and share repurchases. Macroeconomic uncertainties and shifts in trade dynamics could pose long-term challenges for CorVel Corp (NASDAQ:CRVL). The company faces potential increased claims severity in workers' compensation programs due to the growing workforce participation of older adults. There is a need to adapt to changes in traditional billing practices, which may require ongoing enhancements to bill review capabilities. Despite revenue growth, the gross profit increase for patient management services was only 5% for the March quarter, indicating potential margin pressures. The company repurchased shares at a total cost of $9 million, which could limit available capital for other strategic investments. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 12 Warning Signs with ADI. Q: Can you elaborate on the impact of AI tools on CorVel's operations and future plans? A: Michael Combs, Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO, explained that CorVel is increasing the deployment of AI tools across the organization. They are enhancing their communication platform with AI, IVR, and chatbot tools to manage calls more effectively. This integration allows for a unique solution by combining text and email communication data, which fuels AI-powered analysis and insights. The company is also adapting its bill review capabilities to address changes in billing practices, achieving savings beyond standard fee schedules. Q: How is CorVel addressing the growing workforce participation among older Americans? A: Michael Combs highlighted that CorVel anticipates increased claims severity in workers' compensation programs due to the growing workforce participation among Americans aged 75 and older. Their intake advocacy program captures demographic information to identify claims needing more attention. They use advanced data insights and predictive modeling to influence treatment plans, ensuring efficient and outcome-focused care pathways. Q: What are the financial highlights for the March quarter and fiscal year? A: Brandon O'Brien, CFO, reported that March quarter revenues were $232 million, a 12% increase from the previous year. Earnings per share for the quarter were $0.51, up 38%. For the fiscal year, revenues were $896 million, a 13% increase, with earnings per share at $1.83, up 24%. The company also repurchased 80,661 shares at a cost of $9 million during the quarter. Q: How is CorVel's Network Solutions business performing? A: Brandon O'Brien noted that Network Solutions revenue for the March quarter was $83 million, up 24% from the previous year. The fiscal year revenue was $314 million, a 19% increase. The business is expanding service offerings with customizable solutions and has successfully onboarded several high-impact clients, driving substantial volume growth and operational efficiency. Q: What strategic investments is CorVel making in its patient management business? A: Brandon O'Brien stated that CorVel is investing in developing and integrating proprietary AI technologies and automated workflow solutions in their patient management business. These innovations empower their teams to deliver effective results, reinforcing CorVel's market leadership. They also expanded their Enterprise Comp offering to include a new reporting service, enhancing incident tracking and regulatory compliance. For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
